Domain - The Age, September 07, 2019

6 7 SEPTEMBER 2019

Sweet home A breath of fresh air

W hat t o se e t h i s We ekend

G o o d Buy s

Two of a K i nd

FIND A FAVOURITE

UNDER ONE MILLION

FAMILY FRIENDLY

Page 6

Page 11

Page 13

ARTISTS IMPRESSION

A N E W L I F E S T Y L E D E S T I N A T I O N O N LY 7 K M F R O M T H E C B D

Grand Opening this weekend A stunning collection of contemporary apartments with spectacular city views, connected to the vibrancy of Sydney Road. Exceptional residents amenity includes lobby with concierge, library, bar, pool, gym, outdoor bbq’s, green spaces & rooftop cinema.

1 bed, 1 bath, 1 car $375,000 | 2 bed, 2 bath, 1 car $570,000 3 bed, 2 bath, 2 car $850,000 | 4 bed, 3 bath, 2 car $1,146,000 Visit the onsite display suite Sat & Sun 10am-4pm, 200 Sydney Road, Coburg.

CHAD ARBID 1300 888 770 | COBURGCOLLECTIVE.COM.AU

TheEighth.com.au

A major milestone in the evolution of apartment living, at the heart of Melbourne’s Domain Precinct.

A collection of 36 residences, each with private lift access. A limited number of three and four bedroom residences remain, from $1.95M to $4.65M. The Eighth includes a cafĂŠ and wine bar, European-inspired day spa, rooftop pool and curated work spaces.

Enquire now for a private appointment at The Eighth display gallery at 8 Palmerston Crescent South Melbourne.

Damon Krongold 0418 850 757 Peter Kudelka 0418 319 439 TheEighth.com.au @TheEighthMelbourne

Developed and built by Crema.

What I love Welcoming natural light that illuminates grand proportions, this home in one of Australia’s premier suburbs is a sublime blend of classic style and contemporary flourish. With features such as a translucent marble wall, private terraces and aqua lap pool, it’s a special offering from agent Sam Goddard of Abercromby’s.

Hover your phone camera

Discover more

over the code to see listing

INDEX

Note from the editor

O

ur Home Builders’ special edition (flip to New Living) is an easy handbook on starting from scratch. Demolishing an old house and replacing it with a dream creation is an ambitious undertaking but, with an impeccable team of designers, tradespeople and financial advisers, it need not resemble a nightmare episode of The Block. The stories in New Living this week tick off the trends in residential construction, financing a knock-down and rebuild, planting a garden to green the bare, dusty block, and the businesses and builders to add to your little black book. The bright, beautiful residential cover this week reflects Melburnians’ mood, thrilled to see the back of a bitter winter. It also accurately reflects the sunshine and positivity in the property market. The bounce-back has been remarkable; the clearance rate hit 76 per cent last weekend; this time last year, it languished at 57 per cent. The demand for property is strong and this edition fuels the passion.

Scan a property QR code to see more

What to see this Weekend

p6

You Wish

p9

Good Buys

p11

Open Home

p12

Best on Show

p14

House of the Week

p15

When you find a home you like in the Domain magazine, scan the property’s QR code to instantly see more.

WHA AT T

View floor

EEKEN D

plans and

LAST WEEKEND

Open this Weekend

p17

Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see the address and price

This grand Victorian balconied terrace has an eight-metre width in the dress circle of heritage-listed St Vincent Gardens. “It’s the mecca of our area; it takes a special membership to get in,” says agent Geoff Cayzer. Period features abound in the formal rooms.

The upper level has four bedrooms,

6 7 SEPTEMBER 2019

Clearranc ce ratte

55%

beautiful images.

Source: Domain Group

What the agent says

rumpus and two balconies. There is

Home builders

also a plunge pool and pavilion over a

Scan the code in the

| SPECIAL EDITION |

MODERN LIVING

Doubling the appeal ADVICE

antha Moffat

The lowdown on loans

Domain app to see

R RT T Edgar

GARDENING

From the ground up

-have for an town home is

property location,

look – be it a aspect or a ter view.

CANTERBU U RY

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images and floor plans

Highest sale

hover your phone over the app code to see the address and price

K

Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see the address and price

Elevated luxe

he wiides st ghbou ourho ood

TRENDS FOR DE SIG NING THE DRE AM

g

y to the beach,

blu ue-c chiip The own wn update ed grew up p.

Cover story

p4 p6

Advice

p11

Gardening

p17

Neighbourhoods

p21

ve Road d Near-ne ew droom e close to Beaumari ris

6

Modern Living

MARIS

Age ent: J 0418 588

FLIP OVER FOR HOME BUILDERS EDITION

$1..71 million m n

Auction

by Buxto on.

DOM A

Try it out this weekend.

Launch the Domain app and scan a QR code in the ‘more’ menu.

OUR COVER 70 Bay Road, Mount Martha, listed by Warlimont & Nutt p14

Editor Emily Power | Deputy editor Jessica Dale | Editorial assistant Hailey Coules | National managing editor Alice Stolz | Senior designer Colleen Chin Quan | Graphic designer Emma Staughton Picture editor Leigh Henningham | Chief executive officer Jason Pellegrino | Chief consumer officer Jason Chuck | Residential sales Mitch Armstrong 0438 820 767 New development sales Monty Hanger 9249 6536 | Contact editorial@domain.com.au | Domain is published by Domain Holdings Australia Limited and is printed by Elephant Group (Aust) Pty Ltd, 24c Victoria Street, Windsor VIC 3181.

DOM A IN

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WHAT TO SEE THIS WEEKEN D 7

S AT U R DAY

8

S U N DAY

SOUTH YARRA 7 Howitt Street $2.75 million-$2.95 million

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2

LAST WEEKEND

1 Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see the listing

At “the Paris end” of this cul-de-sac, this eye-catching Victorian home and its twin stand out with ornate pediments and manicured gardens.

“The facade detail gives it presence, but inside the vendor has given it

Clearance rate

76

%

Source: Domain Group

What our expert says

personality,” the agent says. The dualera property, suited to a sophisticated buyer, has an upstairs main bedroom and a 1200-bottle wine cellar.

The living room is flanked by a dining room on dark-stained Baltic pine floors and outdoor terrace dining under a pergola set to burst with wisteria blooms.

Auction: 1.30pm, September 14 Agent: Marshall White, Madeline Kennedy 0411 873 913

PARKVILLE

Trent Wiltshire

Domain Economist

Melbourne’s auction

146 Gatehouse Street $2.2 million-$2.4 million

clearance rate has averaged 71 per cent across the past four

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1

weekends, which is the highest point in

Open your camera and

over two years.

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Located central to “the best university, the best hospital and the best parkland”, according to the agent, this two-storey Victorian is

For the latest property insights go to domain.com.au/research

Highest sale

within a neighbourhood of magnificent Boom-era terraces on the edge of Royal Park. “It’s had a recent repaint and style; it’s liveable and ready for the next family to put their stamp on it.” Living rooms are at ground level, four bedrooms are upstairs and the garage is reached from the wide bluestone lane behind.

Auction: 11am, September 14 Agent: Kay & Burton, Andrew Smith 0413 309 605

$3.09 million KEW EAST

167 Belford Road Sold by Kay & Burton.

6

DOM A IN

C o m p i l e d b y JACQ UI HAM M E R TO N

EDITHVALE

Open your camera and

1 Waters Edge Place

hover your phone over

$1.5 million-$1.6 million

the app code to see the listing

4

2

2 community of six residences just off

Purpose-built work-from-home

the sand dunes, it’s “a real

zoning is a feature of this property,

entertainer’s home”, the agent says,

offering a strikingly modern enclosed

“with all the light wrapped around

courtyard-pool area and glass hallway

that centrepiece pool.”

to separate the residence from the

Auction: 10.30am, September 14

front garage and office/retreat above.

Agent: Buxton, Daniel Wright

Part of the Waters Edge gated

0414 788 828

ALBERT PARK

Open your camera and

BRUNSWICK

Open your camera and

173 Mills Street

hover your phone over

40 Murdock Street

hover your phone over

$4.4 million-$4.6 million

the app code to see

$1.4 million-$1.5 million

the app code to see

the listing

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the listing

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Park Lake and “an eight-iron from the

fence, along a central Baltic pine-

With immaculate period character,

water” (says the agent), it’s a classy

A touch of Daylesford comes to the

floored hallway past four bedrooms

contemporary living space and a

single-level double-fronted

inner north at the appealing

(two with fireplaces), to a breezy

shimming saltwater pool in an

Federation-style home, renovated

Edwardian family home named

open-plan rear that spills to a return

entertainer’s courtyard, this is “pretty

top-to-toe in 2015.

Frome. It’s but a stroll to Sydney

verandah and lawn.

much everything the wealthy

Expressions of interest: close 5pm,

Road’s cafe culture and CBD

Auction: noon, September 14

downsizer wants”, the agent says.

September 16

transport, yet it has period character

Agent: Jellis Craig, Elizabeth Kelly

Gosh, who wouldn’t? In a premium

Agent: Greg Hocking Holdsworth,

reminiscent of a tranquil rural retreat,

0431 434 169

location near village shops and Albert

Simon Gowling 0422 234 644

flowing from the woven-wire front

DOM A IN

7

THE NEW

TOUAREG THE NEW NECESSARY

Every so often, you realise you’re worth a bit more and the things you once found extravagant become altogether necessary – introducing the new Touareg. With IQ. Light Matrix LED headlights that guide you around corners. Ventilated massage seats with eight settings. Air suspension system with three driving profiles. An optional 15” touch screen display that controls the car’s other luxuries. These are just a few ways the Touareg is redefining what is necessary. Welcome to the new necessary.

*Innovision cockpit with 15-inch touch screen is available with optional Innovision Package, at extra cost.

YO U W I S H B y CARO LIN E JAM E S

CANTERBURY 62 Wattle Valley Road $3.5 million-$3.75 million

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Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see the listing

A fine arts and crafts architectural form, Mirabella continues to shine as a modern family dream home.

Built about 1907, this substantial executive property has “a combination of everything”, according to its agent. “[Aside from] impressive street appeal, it has the best family home layout, which is a pretty level outdoor pool area that flows from the gourmet kitchen and living areas.”

Set on 1043 square metres, four bedrooms are upstairs including the main with an

HAWTHORN

GLEN IRIS

en suite, walk-in wardrobe

83 Lisson Grove

18 Valley View Road

and Juliet balcony. Original

$6.2 million-$6.82 million

$3.8 million-$4.1 million

features have been retained.

There is leadlight glass,

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fretwork, timber floors and distinctive ceilings.

The 21st century is also on

Open your camera and hover

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your phone over the app code

In an enclave revered for

to see the listing

large, double-storeyed

Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code

A downside of pitched roof

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houses – despite their

display. There are renovated

Victorian homes, Wynstay

myriad luxurious updates

attractive whimsy – can be

“Fortunately this is one of

bathrooms, and a state-of-

does not disappoint. The

including a gym, wine cellar,

lack of headroom, but this

the best; ceiling heights are

the-art kitchen with stone

five-bedroom beauty was

elevated terrace, internal lift

two-storey abode on 1000

generous.” Also favourable is

benchtops.

built in 1892, and renovated

and pool.

square metres has it

a floor plan that blends

Auction: 10am,

this decade to good effect.

Private auction:

covered. “Often they look

elegance with function.

September 14

Its agent describes it as “a

September 17

lovely but just don’t work

Auction: noon,

Agent: Marshall White,

house that keeps on giving”

Agent: Abercromby’s,

when your family is six-foot

September 14

James Tostevin 0417 003 333

thanks to retention of period

Jock Langley 0419 530 008

tall,” its agent says.

Agent: Jellis Craig,

features. But it also houses

Daniel Joyce 0417 816 196

DOM A IN

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G O O D B U YS B y J OSH B OZIN

SOUTH KINGSVILLE 1/44 Saltley Street $770,000-$830,000

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2

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Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code

This sleek and stylish

to see the listing

townhouse is “an affordable, entry level residence perfect

The main bedroom with en

for young families,” says the

suite and walk-in wardrobe

agent. Living and dining

are on the upper level.

BRIAR HILL

quarters on the ground floor

Auction: 2pm, September 21

134 St Helena Road

are spacious and free-

Agent: Village, Joseph

$670,000-$730,000

flowing, and outdoor dining

Luppino 0411 508 458

is made possible with stone

3

1

1

paving and a raised deck.

Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see the listing

For those looking to enjoy the serenity of a friendly neighbourhood, this comfortable triple-fronted family home has just that, while combining “timeless character of the 1960s with the modern, contemporary

STRATHMORE

CAULFIELD SOUTH

style of today,” says the

4 Streldon Avenue

276 Bambra Road

agent. The living room is

$900,000-$990,000

$900,000-$990,000

spacious and inviting, thanks to the gas log fire, and is

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accompanied by a dining

Open your camera and hover

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2

2

Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code

your phone over the app code

room. An updated timber

Factoring in breathtaking

kitchen has terrific storage

valley views, a split two-

along with a stylish breakfast

storey home with a self-

deck complete with a built-in

to charm. The living space

a covered patio. Two

bar with all the electric

contained area – including

barbecue is perfect for

features a gas log fireplace

bedrooms glimpse views of

cooking appliances needed.

its own private entrance –

summer soirees ahead.

and leadlight windows, while

Princes Park.

Auction: 12.30pm,

and a thoughtful, reimagined

Auction: 12.30pm,

polished floorboards add

Auction: 1.30pm,

September 21

floor plan, this home is a

September 14

character to the spacious

September 14

Agent: Jellis Craig,

family haven of quality and

Agent: Nelson Alexander,

room. Neutral walls add a

Agent: Hocking Stuart,

Scott Nugent 0438 054 993

flexibility with a luxurious

Paul Harrison 0418 358 145

brightness in the kitchen and

Todd Newton 0412 568 313

counterpart. Its entertainers’

to see the listing

This well-maintained art-

to see the listing

deco inspired home is sure

dining space, which opens to

DOM A IN

11

OPEN HOME

In t e r v i e w b y K ATE NAN CARROW Ph o t o b y DANIE L P O CKE T T

“Real estate agents are not saving lives, but we are changing lives.”

With

Melbourne Show selling fairy floss

What is it like selling $20 million

DA R R E N L E W E N B E R G from Kay & Burton

and, while I was at uni, I worked at

houses?

Pete ’N’ Rosies Deli at Prahran Market.

Those owners, they are the same as everyone else. Clearly, they are very

S

elling fresh fruit outside the family home in Toorak sharpened Darren Lewenberg’s business acumen. Now, the partner at Kay & Burton sells the area’s prestige houses with the same zest and verve as those early days.

You sound like you have a good

wealthy and often they are oracles in

work ethic.

their chosen field. But when it comes

My work ethic is from my parents who

to selling their houses, they are the

escaped Eastern Europe as very

same as everyone else: emotional,

young children during the Holocaust.

nervous, anxious.

Their drive and commitment was doing what you need to do to survive. I

How do you help with those

What was your early life like?

earning $24,000 a year plus

was indoctrinated with work and with

emotional moments?

I grew up in Toorak. I’m a born and

commission. I thought it was amazing.

the idea that you achieve nothing if

Real estate agents are not saving

bred Toorak boy. I grew up in Grange

I’d been travelling on $11 a day.

you don’t work hard. My point of

lives, but we are changing lives. I

difference is still how hard I work.

understand anxiety is what is

Road and had a blessed upbringing.

So, you had found your career?

prompting them to ring 15 times a day.

What did you do after school?

No, I thought I would not stay. I had

What was the most challenging

I don’t forget that. For my vendors and

I did commerce/arts at Monash

made tentative arrangements to get

thing about the switch to real

buyers I’m there and accessible. I

University and then I travelled for a

to a lunar eclipse in Peru in October or

estate at 37?

don’t forget how important it all is.

few years. I went to Africa, the sub-

November, 1997. I had started work for

I think it’s a humbling thing. I had been

continent – many places. I think I

the printing company at the beginning

the biggest dog in my old business.

What is your life like outside work?

matured late; I was just one of those

of 1997 and thought I would leave but I

When I moved to real estate, I was the

I now have a family of three girls, aged

blokes who took a while.

was there for 12 years.

algae at the bottom of the food chain.

seven, 12 and 14. I don’t know where

I had a lot to prove. I was motivated by

my girls have come from; they’ve

What did you do when you returned

Had you known much about sales

having a family dependent on me. It

hatched. They’re a combination of my

to Melbourne?

before then?

was about baby steps. I set very small

wife and I: emotional, testy and

I stumbled into a job through a

I like dealing with people. I used to sell

goals about where I wanted to be.

gorgeous. We also have a two-year-

friend’s sister at a printing company

fruit from our garden out on the street

that sold to corporate clients. They

in Toorak. I also worked at the Royal

produced annual reports. I was

12

DOM A IN

old boxer dog.

T WO O F A K I N D / FA M I LY A PA RT M E N T S B y CARO LIN E JAM E S

Open your camera and

ALBERT PARK

Open your camera and

hover your phone over

CAULFIELD NORTH

4/123 Beaconsfield Parade

the app code to see

2/12 St Aubins Avenue

the app code to see

$2.1 million-$2.3 million

the listing

$2.195 million

the listing

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2

2

bedrooms occupy the west-side of

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2

the first floor of the converted

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entry to a large open-plan living and dining area with balcony. Bedrooms

Grand old Melbourne with beachside

1880s’ property.

One of two in a prime corner block,

nest to one side of the floor plan.

sass is preserved at this elegant

Auction: 12.30pm, September 14

this apartment will speak to buyers

Private sale

former-Victoria Hotel apartment.

Agent: Marshall White,

seeking an easy, upmarket lifestyle. A

Agent: Gary Peer,

House-like in proportion, its three-

Oliver Bruce 0409 856 599

staircase and internal lift link the

Darren Krongold 0438 515 433

Design.

DOM A IN

13

B E S T O N S H OW B y JACQ UI HAM M E R TO N

MOUNT MARTHA 70 Bay Road $3.7 million-$4.05 million

4

3

2 Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see the listing

Being a designer’s own home gives bayside Beechwood and its gorgeous semi-formal grounds pedigree, personality and a breath of fresh air.

The vendor created a high-end sanctuary rimmed by verandahs, a pergola and decking. The home has square-panelled feature walls echoing multipaned french doors, bay views from a crow’s-nest sitting room and a kitchen replete with Wolf double oven and soapstone island bench. The 1846-square-metre site includes a pool, pool house, trampoline zone and workshop-garaging.

Private sale Agent: Warlimont & Nutt, Trent Cameron 5974 1401

MALVERN

ELSTERNWICK

NORTHCOTE

12 Robinson Street

28 Park Street

169 Arthurton Road

$3 million-$3.3 million

$2 million-$2.1 million

$1.5 million-$1.55 million

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2

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3

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2

Open your camera and hover your phone

Open your camera and hover your phone

Open your camera and hover your phone

over the app code to see the listing

over the app code to see the listing

over the app code to see the listing

A double-height ceiling opens up this Stonnington

Young families upsizing and downsizers who need

This Victorian cottage offers a practical rear garage,

Estate home’s casual living room to the afternoon

room for grandkids are feeling the love at this

home office and slab-heated concrete flooring, but

light and connects it to the gallery-style upper floor.

polished Edwardian home near Harlston Park and

its polychromatic facade hides a party-house. It

Recent refurbishment includes a charcoal exterior

Caulfield Grammar. “It’s true to the traditions of the

comes alive inside with Miele-and-marble kitchen,

palette and multilevel decking to the solar-heated

picket-fence-type house, yet modernised and

indoor-outdoor entertainment separated by a push-

swimming pool.

beautifully presented,” the agent says.

button vertical bifold and a city-view rooftop terrace.

Auction: noon, September 14

Auction: noon, September 15

Auction: 10.30am, September 21

Agent: Jellis Craig, Peter Lloyd 0413 382 874

Agent: Kay & Burton, Grant Samuel 0403 132 095

Agent: Nelson Alexander, Steven Shaw 0414 347 751

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DOM A IN

HOUSE OF THE WEEK B y LO U SWE E N E Y

Need to know: The property was last sold for $3.22 million in April 2010. The highestrecorded house price for Toorak (past 12 months) was $19 million for 16 Lansell Road in December 2018.

Recent Sales $7.05 million 19 Sargood Street, August $3.9 million 11 Springfield Avenue, July

Modern monarch

T

he Tudors have come to Toorak.

Well, truth be told this style has always had a presence on the boulevards of this blue-chip ’burb.

This one in a pretty cul-de-sac has something different going for it – it looks like a period piece but it’s a sharp contemporary work.

Inside a stair takes you down to the spacious garage but the house proper begins with a linear study that bends around into an elegant dark-toned snug that could be used as a retreat or media room. These areas open out to a private bluestone terrace.

A marble powder room sits just off here as the home flows back beyond the entry foyer, the oak parquetry floors anchor the spaces.

To the east side you step down into an elegant formal sitting room with a white marble fireplace. Floor-toceiling windows bring a glow to the gorgeous coffered ceiling. Behind is the generous formal dining room with shaker profile wainscoting.

The sublime rear section with its brilliant volume is elegantly minimal

$6.35 million 6 Evans Court, May

What the agent says

TOORAK 1 Torresdale Court $8.2 million-$9 million

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Expressions of interest: close 5pm, September 17 Agent: Marshall White, Marcus Chiminello 0411 411 271 Open your camera and hover your phone over the app code to see

Marcus Chiminello

Marshall White

the listing

– bluestone floors and banks of black metal banded windows allow the space to shine.

Head out beyond here to the broad entertaining terrace and then up again to the luminous lap pool.

Pad back along that cool bluestone to the kitchen with porcelain benches and a superb fit-out.

A butler’s pantry with stainless steel preparation space sits just behind.

Upstairs there are five bedrooms.

Guest accommodation boasts its own en suite and three of the bedrooms are serviced by a chic bathroom and a teenagers’ retreat.

The main bedroom offers a terrace with city views as well as dual walkin wardrobes and a marble en suite with free-standing bath and a spacious shower.

Timeless architecture and modern luxury seamlessly combine to create this prestigious family home.

DOM A IN

15

OPEN THIS WE E KE N D 7

S AT U R DAY

Address

Beds

Sat Sun Price $000s

Agent

AUCTIONS Houses and Apartments *

Address

Beds

8

S U N DAY

Sat Sun Price $000s

Agent

MURRUMBEENA 25 Murrumbeena Cr

11 Kent Rd

169 Vere St

3BR

12.00

1.2M-1.3M

Biggin & Scott

53 William St

3BR

12.00

POA

Jellis Craig

2.30

POA

Woodards

10/94 Wattletree Rd*

2BR

12.30

POA

MW ONE

47 Rose St

3BR

12.00

POA

Jellis Craig

ASCOT VALE 21 River Av

2BR

2.00

1.46M-1.6M Nelson Alexander

3BR

12.00

POA

MW ONE

BENTLEIGH 6A Atkinson St

4BR

2.30

POA

Marshall White

5BR

1.00

POA

Woodards

1BR

1.30

POA

MW ONE

2BR

10.00

POA

Biggin & Scott

3BR

2.00

POA

Jellis Craig

8/45 Spring St*

2BR

12.00

POA

Biggin & Scott

1BR

10.00

255-280

Biggin & Scott

RICHMOND 16/72 Baker St*

1BR

11.00

280-308

Biggin & Scott

79 Erin St

3BR

10.00

1.1M-1.2M

Biggin & Scott

1.30

POA

Marshall White

4 The Avenue

3BR

11.00

POA

Fletchers

BRIGHTON

4BR

1.30

NPD

Wilson

5/402 Whitehorse Rd*

2BR

2.00

POA

MW ONE

88 Durham Rd

4BR

12.00

NPD

Noel Jones

1/41 Kinane St*

2BR

10.30

POA

Marshall White

TOORAK

4BR

11.00

NPD

Nick Johnstone

11 Kent Ct

3BR

10.30

POA

Marshall White

5/2 Maple Gr*

3BR

2.00

POA

Jellis Craig

2BR

12.00

400-440

Woodards

2BR

11.00

POA

Biggin & Scott

4BR

11.00

1.5M-1.6M Nelson Alexander

3BR

11.00

1.52M-1.67M Nelson Alexander

6/55 Mimosa Rd*

CAULFIELD NORTH 2/374 Dandenong Rd*

ESSENDON 5 Schofield St

WEEKEND OPEN FOR INSPECTIONS Houses and Apartments *

206 Rae St

4BR

3.00

42 Miller St

4BR

12.00

52 Park St

3BR

10.30

NPD

Collins Simms

1.95M-2.14M Nelson Alexander NPD

Collins Simms

18 James St

4BR

1.00

1.3M-1.4M

Woodards

123 Tooronga Rd

4BR

11.00

POA

Jellis Craig

66 Queens Pd

4BR

11.00

POA

Fletchers

90 Great Valley Rd

3BR

10.30

POA

Marshall White

HAMPTON 47A Service St

173 Mills St

4BR

12.30

NPD

Greg Hocking

4/123 Beaconsfld Pd*

3BR

12.45

POA

Marshall White

23 Huntingtower Rd

3BR

12.00

POA

Marshall White

4 Cambridge St

3BR

12.00

POA

Marshall White

6 Tower Ct

3BR

1.30

POA

Marshall White

30 Fourth St

3BR

1.00

POA

Marshall White

12.30

POA

Marshall White

HAWTHORN

190 Barkly St

4BR

1.30

3.6M-3.8M

Buxton

3BR

2.00

3.9M-4.29M

Follett & Co.

4BR

12.15

1.8M-1.98M Nelson Alexander

12A/19 Park St St*

2BR

10.30

540-595

RT Edgar

44 Glyndon Rd

4BR

2.00

POA

Fletchers

49 Elgin St

4BR

3.00

1.2M-1.3M

Woodards

6 Trafalgar Rd

5BR

1.00

POA

Jellis Craig

2BR

10.30

POA

MW ONE

5BR

10.15

POA

Marshall White

201/721 Toorak Rd*

CANTERBURY

MALVERN EAST 417 Waverley Rd

62 Wattle Valley Rd

11.00

POA

Jellis Craig

51 Aroona Rd

18 Valley View Rd

5BR

12.00

POA

Jellis Craig

9 Hillcrest Rd

4BR

11.00

POA

Marshall White

18 Yarra St

4BR

12.00

NPD

Kay & Burton

36 Auburn Rd

8BR

4.00

POA

Jellis Craig

518 Glenferrie Rd

5BR

1.30

POA

Marshall White

4BR

3.00

POA

Jellis Craig

5BR

12.45

POA

Marshall White

12 Robinson St

4BR

10.00

POA

Jellis Craig

16 Bonview Rd

4BR

1.00

POA

Marshall White

2a Cressy St

4BR

10.00

POA

Jellis Craig

3BR

12.00

POA

Marshall White

3BR

11.00

POA

Marshall White

3BR

12.15

POA

Marshall White

3BR

2.30

POA

Marshall White

3BR

10.00

NPD

Greg Hocking

4BR

2.00

POA

Jellis Craig

1/23 Millswyn St*

3BR

10.00

POA

Marshall White

18.1/193 Domain Rd*

3BR

11.15

POA

Marshall White

26 Cunningham St

4BR

2.00

NPD

RT Edgar

7 Howitt St

3BR

1.00

POA

Marshall White

4BR

12.00

NPD

Wilson

HAWTHORN

HAWTHORN EAST KEW MALVERN

MALVERN EAST 15 Millewa Av

MELBOURNE 1107/250 St Kilda Rd*

705/147 Beach St*

RICHMOND SOUTH YARRA

4 The Avenue

1.00

1 Torresdale Ct

5BR

1.15

POA

Marshall White

11 Tashinny Rd

4BR

11.00

POA

Marshall White

2/23 Washington St*

3BR

2.30

POA

Marshall White

4 Martin Ct

3BR

3.00

NPD

Kay & Burton

46 Hopetoun Rd

5BR

2.45

POA

Marshall White

71 Grange Rd

4BR

12.00

NPD

RT Edgar

3BR

11.30

POA

Marshall White

4BR

2.00

POA

Marshall White

WEST MELBOURNE 468 William St

CAULFIELD NORTH 3BR

2M-2.2M Nelson Alexander

TOORAK

CAMBERWELL

KOOYONG

2.00

ST KILDA EAST

BRUNSWICK 4BR

6BR

214 Park Street

26 Clifton St

BRIGHTON 40 Black St

1.87M-2.05M Nelson Alexander

PORT MELBOURNE

BLACK ROCK

GLEN IRIS

12.00

1/30 York St*

ALBERT PARK

18/495 Balcombe Rd

Collins Simms

MONT ALBERT

BEAUMARIS

GLEN HUNTLY

3BR

14 Cecil St

198 Page St

ARMADALE

FITZROY NORTH

NPD

MIDDLE PARK

COLLINGWOOD 37 Oxford St

11.00

21 John St

8 Holmwood Av

CARNEGIE

2BR

36 Currajong Rd

SURREY HILLS 4BR

419 Well St

GLEN IRIS

71 Greville St

16 Martin St

Agent

FITZROY NORTH

ST KILDA EAST

BOX HILL NORTH 1/6 Second Av*

750-800 Nelson Alexander

SOUTH MELBOURNE

BLACKBURN SOUTH 51 Indra Rd

2.00

406/13-15 Grattan St*

10/109 Mary St*

BALWYN 9/229 Whitehorse Rd*

3BR

PORT MELBOURNE 36/4 Seisman Pl*

Sat Sun Price $000s

FITZROY

PRAHRAN

ARMADALE

Beds

CLIFTON HILL 4BR

PASCOE VALE ABBOTSFORD

Address

WINDSOR 47 Mcilwrick St

6BR

2.30

3.00

NPD

Gary Peer

*Denotes unit / townhouse / apartments

Map out your search Install the Domain app.

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ALBERT PARK

Home of 6 million Australians each month That’s a lot of potential buyers.

535 & 537 Maroondah Highway Coldstream 176 HA / 435 ACRES (approx.)

Strategic land holding comprising of 3 Titles. Significant high exposure corner allotment with long 873 metres frontage (approx.) to Maroondah Highway. Situated at the gateway to the world-renowned Yarra Valley famous for its beau�ful scenery and celebrated winery’s, a major domes�c and interna�onal tourism des�na�on. Offering excep�onal development poten�al including hor�culture, agriculture, restaurant, vineyard/ winery, group accommoda�on, func�on centre, exhibi�on centre, freezing and cool storage, residen�al dwellings, exclusive country retreat, land bank, superannua�on investment etc STCA. Residen�al zones adjacent to both the eastern and northern boundary. All services are available.

Map out your search

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rtedgar.com.au EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Thursday 10th October at 5.00pm (Unless Sold Prior) VIEW By Appointment | PRICE Contact Agent Australia’s home of property.

Gerard Kennan 0413 139 231 | Andrew Houghton 0409 438 526 | Mark Sutherland 0407 103 811

ALBERT PARK - ARMADALE

GREG HOCKING HOLDSWORTH

A4 B3 C2

173 Mills Street, Albert Park An exceptional domain, this stunning three or four bedroom residence showcases an irresistible blend of period elegance and designer contemporary style within an intelligently zoned family focused floorplan. Appointed with the finest fittings and fixtures, features include a streamlined Miele kitchen, open plan living and dining plus a salt water, gas heated pool. Land size 415sqm approx. www.173millsstreetalbertpark.com.au

Albert Park 8644 5500

For Sale EOI Inspect Contact

close 16 Sept at 5pm Sat 12.30-1pm Wed 6-6.30pm Simon Gowling 0422 234 644 Greg Hocking 0418 329 961 Max Mercuri 0431 043 723

A3 B2 C3

705/147 Beach Street, Port Melbourne Breathtaking views from Port Phillip Bay to Melbourne’s CBD, this three bedroom domain boasts impressive proportions of 175sqm approx, luxurious finishes and seamless indoor and outdoor living. Features open plan living and dining, gourmet kitchen and generous wrap around terrace of 125sqm approx. The main bedroom presents expansive robes, marble ensuite and beach facing balcony. Includes exquisite family bathroom and parking.

Auction Price Inspect Contact

Sat 14th September at 11.30am Contact Agent Sat 10-10.30am Wed 5.30-6pm Peter Zervas 0405 682 173 Callum Richardson 0488 504 889

greghocking.com.au

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BEAUMARIS - BRIGHTON

30 Fourth Street Black Rock 4 B 4 b 2+ c1S

The Ultimate Resort Style Family Entertainer Over 2 lift-accessed levels with 4BRs, 4 bathrooms, 2 living areas, dining, sleek stone & Miele kitchen, resort-style grounds with pool / spa.

Auction Saturday 21st Sept at 2:30pm Price $3,600,000 - $3,800,000

kayburton.com.au 20

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Inspect Sat Sep 7th 1.30pm to 2.00pm Wed Sep 11th 12.30pm - 1.00pm Contact Romana Altman 0414 804 270 Jennifer Hine 0407 549 047

BRIGHTON - BRUNSWICK

2D DENDY STREET, BRIGHTON

TWO EXCLUSIVE BRAND NEW & JUST COMPLETED LUXURY RESIDENCES WITH STUNNING BAY & CITY VIEWS

RESIDENCE 3

Designed by Jackson Clements Burrows

RESIDENCE 4

3 BED / 3.5 BATH / 3 CAR

Landscaped by Jack Merlo

3 BED / 4.5 BATH / 3 CAR

First class appointments throughout

Fabulous offering of 226m2 of internal living plus a full North-facing 96m2 rooftop terrace

Private internal lifts to individual rooftop terraces

House-sized living with 227m2 of internal space plus an amazing 176m2 rooftop terrace

E X P R E S S I O N S O F I N T E R E S T C L O S I N G 1 7 TH S E P T E M B E R A T 4 P M INSPECT THIS SATURDAY & SUNDAY 11AM - 12PM CALL MICHAEL LANG 0407 766 771 OR VISIT DENDYRESIDENCES.COM.AU

40 Black Street, Brighton

3

3.5

2

This stunning renovated Victorian home

EOI

Closing Tue 17th Sept at 5pm

offers

INSPECT

Sat & Sun 2-2:30pm

expansive formal lounge and

dining, enormous family/meals, marble Miele kitchen, all beds with ensuites, courty t ard, and double garage. ty follettco.com.au

CONTACT

Thurs 5-5:30pm Justin Follett Brett Graham Kate Schuster

0405 996 822 0417 766 777 0410 587 286

Easily fit property search into your life

Australia’s home of property.

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CAMBERWELL - CARLTON NORTH

Part of the Marshall White Group

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CAULFIELD NORTH - ELWOOD

GaryPeer.com.au

51 Aroona Road, Caulfield North

The Golden Mile’s finest 51AroonaRoadCaulfieldNorth.com

Presiding over an exclusive streetscape & designed by architects Synman Justin Bialek, this solid brick masterpiece on a magnificent 970m2 allotment* epitomises grace & grandeur. Showcasing soaring high ceilings, extraordinary entertaining spaces, resort style gardens, formal lounge/ dining room, marble kitchen, fully fitted study, fully equipped theatre room, heated pool & spa & wraparound alfresco deck. *Approximate Title Measurements

6

A

4.5

B

2

C

Expressions of Interest Closing Thu 12 Sep 5:00pm

Inspect

Sat 2:30-3:00pm Sun 3:00-3:30pm Thurs 12:00-12:30pm

Contact

Darren Krongold Sally Zelman Daniel Fisher

0438 515 433 0412 294 488 0409 797 560

1 Waters Edge Place Edithvale

Elwood 84 Ruskin Street

4 B 2 b 2 c1S

Luxury by the bay This exquisite home showcases a sophisticated design throughout with a rooftop deck which captures beautiful views of the Bay & Dandenongs.

Auction Saturday 14th Sept at 10:30am

Inspect As advertised online

Price $1,500,000 - $1,600,000

Contact Daniel Wright 0414 788 828 Michelle Cahir 0404 012 654

A

B

C

4

4

2

New Levels of Luxury with a Glass Lift & Studio This sophisticated 4-BR/4-Bath residence aunts designer style and premium appointments just moments from the village and foreshore. With stunning living areas, an exceptional kitchen plus heated pool and self-contained studio, it includes an elevator, heating/cooling and double garage with ROW. For Sale: Contact Agent Contact: Sam Gamon 0425 702 574 Inspect: Sat 11.45-12.15 | Sun 12.45-1.15 Rhianna Hoyle 0408 100 583

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FITZROY - GLEN IRIS

Map out your search Install the Domain app.

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HAWTHORN

d

t

s ju

pl m co

e et

2 scott grove, glen iris

townhouse 6

Beautifully appointed 3 bedroom townhome with private elevator & double basement car accommodation. generous living area with fireplace private entertaining courtyard spacious kitchen with gaggenau appliances marble finished bathrooms

83 Lisson Grove 5

4

3

Period elegance that has flourished since 1880 and the contemporary excellence contributed by a 2013 renovation by esteemed architect Neil Clerehan are brilliantly, beautifully combined throughout WYNSTAY. In a residence that’s recognised for its spaces and revered for its style, the character of refined formal rooms is complemented by the light-filled ease of informal proportions and a magnificent kitchen featuring a butler’s pantry. Above, five bedrooms of unlimited luxury share two sublime bathrooms, including the main bedroom´s ensuite. Two additional bathrooms, zoned heating and air-conditioning, plantation shutters and 3 phase power accompany a fabulous home further enhanced by the flexible lower level’s retreat/theatre, gym, wine cellar and storage. A separate billiards room, solar/gas heated pool, travertine terrace, BBQ bench, external fire-place, lift access to all floors and and 3 car garage add to - but by no means conclude - the attractions of WYNSTAY, moments from leading schools, Glenferrie Road and transport.

Private Auction: Tuesday 17th September View: By Appointment Saturday & Thursday 12.00-12.30pm Video Journey: vimeo.com/353910483 Contact: Jock Langley 0419 530 008 Simon Curtain 0405 385 285 Emma Pierson 0409 182 310 Office 9864 5300

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HAWTHORN

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HAWTHORN

kayburton.com.au

Home of 25,000 new properties each week Find them on the app.

kayburton.com.au 28

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Australia’s home of property.

MALVERN

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MALVERN

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MALVERN - MELBOURNE

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PARKVILLE

kayburton.com.au 32

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PRAHRAN - ST KILDA EAST

Easily fit property search into your life

Australia’s home of property.

AY D N

C AU

TI

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SU

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TOORAK

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TOORAK

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TOORAK

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TOORAK

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ns

truction

SEP

BER TEM 9 1 20

Co

589 Toorak Road, Toorak

es

Co

TOORAK

mmen

c

Six half-floor residences and a sweeping whole-floor penthouse, all 3-bedroom.

Priced from $2,095,000 to $3,995,000 Situated between Lansell and St Georges Roads, moments to Toorak Village, Ode’s seven residences exude raw sophistication.

Outside, bold refinement. Inside, an inviting warmth: detailed touches, natural stone and a neutral palette adding layers of texture and comfort to the bright, airy interiors.

Timeless. Beautiful. A living tribute to Toorak, and those who reside in it.

Enquiries

Brought to you by

Construction by

Designed by

Sales by

Sarah Case—0439 431 020 Rudy Van Der Berg—0405 204 450 Or visit fortis.com.au/ode

71 Grange Road Toorak

26 Cunningham Street South Yarra

The award-winning teams at Flack Studio & MLS Built, this impressive home has been renovated to the highest Interna�onal standard, 4 bedrooms all with ensuites, expansive family & dining room, library, separate si�ng room with gas fire and double garage. This is a bold vision showing superior a�en�on to detail and the city skyline as its drama�c backdrop.

A brand new, light filled 3/4 bedroom Victorian home offering 380sqm approx. of several stunning lifestyle zones split over three levels accessed via li�. The spacious living & dining areas with gas fireplace all open out to designer landscaped garden & BBQ area that’s perfect for all year entertaining. A basement garage with a 9-car capacity, home theatre, kitchene�e & bathroom. www.rtedgar.com.au EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Thursday 17th of October at 12.00pm (Unless Sold Prior) VIEW Saturday 2.00-2.30pm & Wednesday 1.00-1.30pm Sarah Case 0439 431 020 | Rudy Van Der Berg 0405 204 450

www.rtedgar.com.au EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST Tuesday 17th September at 12.00pm VIEW Saturday 12.00-12.30pm & Thursday 1.00-1.30pm Helena Chow 0407 226 828 | Sarah Case 0439 431 020

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COAST & COUNTRY

MANSFIELD | VIC I EO

485.3 Hectares - 1,200 Acres

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FOR SALE - BY EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST CLOSING SATURDAY, 9TH OCTOBER 2019 AT 4PM, UNLESS SOLD PRIOR

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www.ruralcoproperty.com.au

13 11 14

eldersrealestate.com.au

eldersrealestate.com.au

‘INGLEBAR’ Spring Drive, Corowa/Mulwala NSW | 967 HA* / 2,390 AC*

‘PANORAMA’ Borung, VIC | 455 HA / 1,125 AC • Situated midway between Wedderburn and Boort • Strong soil types in great heart, lightly natural timbered areas • 10 main paddocks plus holding areas, presently 200 acres milling oats crop (share farmer) • 3 stand shearing shed, steel sheep yards (3-way bugle design), classing race, loading ramp • Stock containment area with intensive feeding infrastructure • Wimmera Mallee pipeline connected with tanks and 12 trough systems • Wool shed, workshop and sundry shedding • Modern well-appointed 3 bedroom BV homestead set in expansive garden surrounds

Auction

Date Friday 4th October, 11.00am on property Kevin Thompson 0419 857 377 Elders Wycheproof 03 5493 6400 eldersrealestate.com.au/21173847

RE280FR&A

Cropping and Grazing Land

Outstanding Rural Holding with Murray River and Lake Mulwala Frontage

*Denotes approximately

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• Significant pasture improvement with lucerne & perennial pastures plus cereal crops (passing with property). The property sustains a vibrant beef and sheep operation, plus fodder production. Home to the Barvon Shorthorn herd • Excellent improvements – steel cattleyards, steel sheepyards, woolshed, 3 machinery sheds, hayshed and 16 silos • Outstanding rural investment. Video and IM available

Newham Lot 1/84 Bryces Lane (Cnr Bryces Lane and Rochford Road)

Tender Closing Thursday 3rd October 2019, 3pm, Elders Albury Inspection by appointment only David Gittoes 0409 362 722 david.gittoes@elders.com.au Reg Coulston 0418 118 207 reg.coulston@elders.com.au Elders Albury 02 6021 3355 eldersrealestate.com.au/21183877

RE279FR&A

• Located 23 kms* west of Corowa and 19 kms* east of Yarrawonga/Mulwala, 78 kms* from Albury/ Wodonga • Situated in a reliable 20-22”* (525-550mm*) rainfall district • Excellent water with full frontage and access to Lake Mulwala and the Murray River plus surface dams and fully reticulated trough system, 2 S&D bores, 5 meg S&D from Lake Mulwala, 50 meg irrigation entitlement • Magnificent architecturally designed and Masterbuilt 50 sq Homestead overlooking Lake Mulwala and its Everglades. This classic Australian Homestead comprises 5 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, gourmet kitchen, entertainment room and quality inclusions.

Plus comfortable 2 bedroom managers cottage • Quality soils ranging from Murray River Flats to fully arable red loams. Strong fertiliser and lime history

42.5 Ha (105 Acres) Invest in a big slice of country lifestyle Rare chance to secure a very attractive small farm tree change acreage with planning permit in prime central Macedon Ranges location only 3kms from the iconic Hanging Rock. Features include approx. 1.5km of sealed road frontage, grey loam soils, established pine shelter tree plantations, and scattered native tree clusters. Views over to Mount Macedon, the Camels Hump, Mount Crystal, Mount William and the Cobaw Ranges.

keatings.com.au

83 High Street, Woodend

Price $1,200,000 Inspection by appointment Sandi Barry-Mueller 0408 392 347 Peter Wood 0408 866 774 John Keating 0419 880 444

(03) 5427 2999

COAST & COUNTRY

Rural

Rural

Turn-Key Orchard in Victoria’s Fruit Bowl Region ‘Woodlands Orchard’, 133.8ha*, Goulburn Valley, Victoria A turn-key operation delivering 16,000+ bins of fruit p.a. 34 orchard blocks, 2 titles. Varieties incl. apple (Pink Lady 7,000 bins), peach, plum and pear. 835ML lic., plant, equip. and fruit bins. 7.4km* Tatura, 22km* Shepparton and 179km* Melbourne. Close to Goulburn Valley Hwy and rail links. Auctioned with ‘Crop-In’, immediate income available.

raywhiteruralvictoria.com.au

Bespoke Brilliance Atop The Great Dividing Range Auction 20 Sept 11:30am Level 17, 40 City Road, Southbank Jason Hellyer 0403 043 571 Peter Croxford 0418 570 545 *approx.

Rural

raywhiteararat.com.au

Sale by Deadline Wednesday 11 September 2019 11am Jason Hellyer 0403 043 571

raywhiteruralvictoria.com.au

*approx.

Rural

Versatile Farm with Stunning Grampians Backdrop ‘Wirraway’, 1094 Sandbar Road, Lake Lonsdale, Victoria 267.81ha* (662* acres) amazing views to Lake Lonsdale and Grampians backdrop. Sealed road access only minutes* to Stawell, easy access to Ballarat and Melbourne. Eye catching 38sq* sprawling home. Versatile property, 9 paddocks, 8 dams, 200m* to the boat ramp at Lake Lonsdale. Average rainfall 473mm*.

‘Eagles Rise’, 21.17ha* (52.31* acres), Clonbinane, Victoria Sweeping views of the Great Dividing Range, Mt Piper and Clonbinane Valley, this opulent 52.31* acre rural-lifestyle retreat is located just over 1hr* from the bustle of Melbourne’s CBD. The architecturally designed home features Tasmanian Oak floors, ceilings and walls, exposed steel beams and underfloor hydronic heating.

Blend o Sale by Deadline Wednesday 25 September 2019 Adam Walker 0417 105 012 Ray White Ararat

rganic Farming and o age Accommodation

‘High Peaks’, 60.7ha* (150ac*), Fumina South, Victoria 1hr 50min* from Melbourne’s CBD. Blends organic farming activity with craftsman built B&B cottage accom. 2 storey residence — 3 bdm + open plan living. 2 immaculate B&B cottages — 1x 2 bdm, 1x 1 bdm.

25ac* cleared organic farmland, 125ac* bushland. Secluded campsite abutting West Tanjil River. Outstanding shedding infrastructure. *approx.

Sale By Deadline Thur 12 Sept 2019 11am Vince Di Grazi a 0433 921 581 Jason Hellyer 0403 043 571

raywhitedrouin.com.au

*approx.

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Finding a new home isn’t always easy Inspecting it should be Take the stress out of your property journey.

Simply tap to shortlist your favourite properties and the Inspection Planner maps out your week.

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6 7 SEPTEMBER 2019

Home builders | SPECIAL EDITION |

MODERN LIVING

Doubling the appeal ADVICE

The lowdown on loans GARDENING

From the ground up

Elevated luxe TRENDS FOR DE SIG NING THE DRE AM

HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

C OV E R S T O RY B y E LICIA M U RR AY

T

he pioneering architect, designer and urban planner Le Corbusier once described the home as the treasure chest of living.

Homes offer comfort, sanctuary, shelter and an opportunity to enhance the quality of life of those who dwell within its walls. For architects, interior designers and builders, residential projects also offer a chance to experiment with new forms and test the boundaries of what is possible.

Some of the most innovative designs are found at the top end of the market, setting a trend that spreads throughout the industry.

In this home builders’ edition of Domain, we delve into some of hottest emerging design and construction trends in the world of homes. Let’s lift the lid of the treasure chest:

The next wave

Healthy homes What does it take for a home to be healthy? A rowing machine in the garage just doesn’t cut it any more – especially if it’s covered in cobwebs.

Melbourne-based architect Rob Mills of acclaimed studio Rob Mills Architecture and Interiors says many of today’s prestige homes incorporate a suite of health-promoting amenities, from gyms to saunas and massage rooms. “We call them wellness centres on a domestic level.”

Notions of wellness extend to the location and building blocks of houses themselves. Are they close to public transport and parks? Is there a strong connection to nature, including natural light? Construction methods and materials are coming under the microscope, with close attention paid to the level of toxins found in adhesives, paints, floor coverings and cabinetry.

Mills says having a home that promotes wellness isn’t a luxury reserved for the wealthy. “You really want fresh air, access to light, space and a healthy environment. That’s attainable by everybody.”

Curves at Armadale

Architects, built by Warwick Constructions.

Residence by Rob

Photography by Derek Swalwell, styling by Swee Design, art by Kathryn Dolby.

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MARK ROPER

OUR COVER Bayside House by Matyas

Mills Architecture & Interiors.

Curves ahead

Shadow House by Matt Gibson Architecture, built

by Warwick Constructions with interiors by Mim

SHANNON McGRATH

It seems the days of the minimalist box are numbered. If the twists, turns and round edges splashed across the pages of design magazines are any indication, there are indeed curves ahead.

Mills says there’s something inherently calming about curves.

“Today, a lot of our walls are quite sculptural.”

This lust for curved lines is perhaps most dramatically evident in spiral staircases, with a sculptural form can elevate humble steps into works of art. James Gooley, director at highend Melbourne construction outfit Visioneer Builders, says more manufacturing firms are specialising in spiral staircases.

“When it’s at the front door, it’s the first thing you see,” he says. “People see it as a real feature.”

Design, makes a feature of raw materials such as concrete and brick.

“It’s natural and it’s raw and what you see is what you get ... I appreciate the workmanship behind it.”

PETER BENNETTS

Horizon builds some of Sydney’s most stunning luxury homes. managing director David Moses says more projects are incorporating offform concrete. “It’s natural and it’s raw and what you see is what you get,” he says. “From my point of view, and of course I’m biased, but I like it because I appreciate the workmanship behind it.”

Look to the future

A spiral staircase leads to the basement bar in a Hawthorn East residence built by Visioneer Builders.

Raw beauty Not so long ago, the raw materials used to construct houses were hidden and bare concrete was the stuff of driveways and nondescript 1980s high schools.

Now, concrete, brick, timber, metal and even rammed-earth finishes are stepping into the spotlight, cementing themselves (pardon the pun) as unadorned beauties in highend homes – inside and out.

As the price of land in sought-after suburbs rises, home owners are looking at ways to make the most of what they have. For many, this involves exploring the possibilities of subterranean spaces. Car turntables and lifts are being used to create five-star garages on modestly sized blocks. Basement gyms, bars or golf simulators are other options.

Moses says he encourages owners to consider how garages could be converted into useful living spaces in a decade or two when driverless cars become mainstream.

“I think people need to design their garages with a back-up plan for what they’ll do with the space when they don’t own a car,” Moses says.

“Perhaps that means putting a window in there and running some plumbing and power so it can be turned into a home theatre or a gym or a rumpus room for the kids.”

The crystal ball gazing doesn’t end there. He also urges clients to consider including an easily accessible space for landing a drone to receive packages and meal deliveries. Mushroom and pepperoni pizza, anyone?

The impressive steelframed window shroud at Shadow House, below.

Window dressing Steel-framed doors and windows have been in vogue for a while now, often used to dramatic effect when black frames contrast against crisp whites and timber finishes.

Warwick Matthews, director at upmarket Melbourne builder Warwick Constructions, has another trend to add: the metal window shroud, also known as a reveal.

“It’s like a hood around a window, almost like a box,” Matthews says.

“That’s a real trend. It can help with privacy and for shielding. When you’re in the room, it looks like the wall goes out further than it does because the shroud extends out.”

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

MODERN LIVING B y K ATE J O N E S

Metricon dual occ projects provide

Family duals

T

hey say it takes a village to raise a child, and for some families the support never stops. This explains why one in five Australian households has adults from two or more generations living under one roof.

Commonly, it’s grandparents living with their adult children and possibly their grandchildren too. Architects and builders are increasingly catering for the intergenerational living market, which accounts for more than four million Australians.

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Nick McKimm, director of Melbourne-based architectural, design and construction practice Mckimm, says it’s essential to integrate the needs of the old and young into multigenerational homes.

“Mckimm designs are always considerate to mobility, ergonomics and transition through spaces,” he says. “We limit steps both internally and externally and always provide zero threshold, so no steps, from internal areas to outdoor spaces.

“Designing with consideration to wheelchair compliancy, we use lifts

options without compromising space or style.

and in some cases hydraulic platforms through all of our developments to ensure we cater to all generational requirements.

“For example, in one of our recent developments, there were six steps to the front door, so we included a concealed hydraulic platform at the entry path to allow for any visitors or residents who are incapacitated.”

Wide transitions between spaces and improved ergonomics in kitchens are small but important methods designers use to make life easier for all age groups, McKimm says.

“This includes bench heights, shelving accessibility, raising dishwashers and generous width between benches,” he says. “In bathrooms we allow for spacious and practical shower access, hand rails and practical sanitary items such as single lever taps. And we like to ensure that living zones are practical within all our developments and we accommodate a higher standard of multigenerational living.”

Dual occupancy homes, or dual occs as they are commonly called, are often a solution for families who want to stay close, but not too close.

Sometimes referred to as duplexes, dual occs are two homes built on one site in one of two configurations; side by side or one behind the other.

Family homes on generous parcels of land often find it an appealing avenue because they can take advantage of a large and unused backyard or front yard.

Perhaps the biggest appeal is for downsizers. Often they want to stay at their current address while also finding a way to get their adult children into the housing market or keep their ageing parents nearby.

McKimm projects consider the needs of all age groups, above and right; a sleek Metricon dual occ kitchen, left.

“Dual occs are separate, so everyone has independent living … There are no shared or joined living spaces.”

Jarrod Sturdy, dual occ business manager at Metricon, says dual occs are a great way for everyone to maintain their independence.

“Dual occs are separate, so everyone has independent living,” he says. “There are no shared or joined living spaces – maybe a shared driveway, but that’s about it.

“If you are downsizing, or getting your first home, you still want to be independent.”

They may occupy smaller footprints than stand-alone homes, but dual occ builds don’t compromise on space or style. However, for many, the prospect of building is a more daunting proposition. Sturdy says it’s up to a good support team to help home owners through the process.

“We like to build a development team around our customers, we have all the experts and contacts so we make sure it’s as easy as possible for our customers,” he says. “We have done over 750 successful planning permits and we do build quite a few of these each year and having the right advice upfront makes the process a lot easier.

“We can give you costings along the way and we always design everything with building in mind and making sure you’re going to make money.”

Residential architecture and construction integrated in a process that promotes creativity, flexibility and efficiency.

— Damian 0477 116 244 informdesign.com.au DOM A IN

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

CUSTOM LIVING

A chance to start afresh Kelada says it’s difficult to obtain upfront pricing when renovating due to unforeseen costs, which are usually identified after the work has already begun.

“A major renovation can cost over $300,000, with budgets and timelines often blowing out. At Boutique Homes, the base price for a new home starts from $204,900 with designs ranging from 22 to 49 square metres.

“When you complete a renovation, the older part of the home is on original footings with old plumbing and wiring in the walls and you don’t know how the house will stand the test of time.”

Boutique Homes: Montauk 49, right; Grange 41 kitchen, below

Designed for you

left; Hamptons facade,

Kelada says the advantages of engaging an expert such as Boutique Homes is that individuals receive a fixed-price building contract for their dream home. He says engaging experts to come up with the best site-specific design also means the home is tailored to suit an individual’s needs.

“Our policy when it comes to pricing ensures individuals receive their new home price upfront,” he adds. “We can also manage everything from the demolition of an existing property through to planning and building approvals.

“Our specialist team assess each property and personalise each home from our suite of design options.

We review each block and advise on floor plans and facade options that suit the block and comply with local requirements.”

Boutique Homes also manages all the trades and suppliers to ensure the construction of the home is in line with its quality standards. For those at the beginning of their journey, Kelada says visiting a display home is a good way for buyers to find inspiration and get a sense of what their future home might look like.

below right.

D

emolishing a house and building a new one on the same site is an increasingly popular option for home owners who want to stay put.

“One of the main benefits of undertaking such a project is that a knockdown rebuild enables individuals to stay in the neighbourhood they know and love,” says David Kelada, a new homes consultant at Boutique Homes.

Kelada says building a brand-new home in a well-located area with great amenities also makes sense from a financial perspective, as it preserves the equity in the land and increases the value of the property

without additional expenses such as stamp duty and agents’ fees.

“It can be really important for some people to stay in a familiar neighbourhood where they have tight friendship circles and know the shopping centres, the schools, the neighbours,” says Kelada.

“Completing a knockdown rebuild can also work out to be a lot less costly than purchasing established or renovating.”

Avoid budget blowouts Kelada says current market conditions are helping to drive the knockdown rebuild trend as home owners recognise the

value in redeveloping as opposed to renovating.

He says the fact that Boutique Homes offers a structural guarantee on its new homes for 25 years means a knockdown rebuild project can be more cost-effective than a renovation over the longer term.

“If your renovation involves sprucing up the kitchen or repainting the walls, then that’s quite affordable. But if you’re increasing the size of your existing home, or adding another level, the cost is nearly in line with what a knockdown rebuild would be.”

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

BUILDING A DREAM

Make the most of a clean slate

A

house doesn’t evolve in the same way a life does; it remains the same while your wants and needs change and grow. For families who find they’ve outgrown their space, the prospect of having to uproot and move house is often a daunting one.

“Being on first-name terms with your barista, swapping home-grown veggies with the neighbours – there are endless ways we develop connections within our local communities that provide compelling reasons to stay put,” says real estate agent Jodie J Hill, director of SheSELLS. This is especially true for families, who have children settled at school.

“If your house is in a highly coveted school zone, do not move,” Hill advises.

The solution may well be to stay where you are, knock down the existing dwelling and rebuild.

“With a knockdown rebuild, you get all the benefits of a brand-new home, but you don’t need to uproot your family from schools,” says Jake Munday, general manager of sales and marketing at Fairhaven Homes.

“The first benefit is that everything remains familiar.”

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Another advantage is that families can design a home specific to their needs.

“You can create and elevate your estate,” says Hill. “You can let the light in, get clever with the use of space and storage, and be sustainable in your approach.”

Fairhaven Homes have two offerings within their knockdown and rebuild service, which enable customers to build their dream home. The Elegance option is positioned at the higher end, while Bridgewater “gives you all the bells and whistles and at a much more affordable price,” says Munday.

Fairhaven’s homes, which are sixstar energy rated, come with a fixed

A new home can incorporate all the ‘bells and whistles’.

price contract, which the company achieves by assessing the “blank canvas” at the very beginning of the process to eliminate any surprises or hidden costs down the track.

Building predominantly in Melbourne’s inner-east and bayside suburbs means they are fully across the variations between council regulations. “Everyone has different sets of rules that quite often the

homeowners are not aware of, so we take all that guesswork away from them,” adds Munday.

“A lot of people go out and fall in love with a design before they will look at the canvas they’re trying to build on. We do it the other way around. We will pull everything apart at the beginning before we even talk about a design to ensure that we’re working within the parameters that we’re presented with.”

Then comes the fun of choosing what your brand-new home will look like, with Fairhaven having more than 45 design options to choose from. Living in a new house, while retaining the value, amenity and familiarity of an established suburb, “is just something that is extremely appealing,” says Munday.

IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

A DV I C E

B y DANIE L B UTKOVICH

FRANK MAIORANA

$

Building a firm foundation

W

hen building a home, it’s easy to get swept away in finishes, fixtures and fittings, but there’s another f-word that’s arguably the most important part of the equation – finance.

The average cost of building a new home was $317,389 in 2018, according to figures released by the Housing Institute of Australia this year. The price of a custom dream home is likely to be much higher, especially once landscaping, driveways, swimming pools and furnishings are included – not to mention the cost of the land itself.

While some people will be able to use equity or cash to fund their new home, most will rely on a construction loan, which differs from a standard home loan for an existing property.

How construction loans work Construction loans are suitable for people building a home from scratch, substantially renovating their current home, or undertaking a knock-downrebuild project, according to Mortgage Choice chief executive Susan Mitchell.

Instead of providing a lump sum payment on settlement, construction loans are provided in stages known

as progress payments, which coincide with each key stage of construction.

“A construction loan enables you to draw down the approved funds as you need them so you pay interest only on the drawn-down amount until your build is finished,” she says.

Most banks will set up a loan facility that allows six to seven payments, according to Building Loans Australia mortgage broker Michael Nguyen.

Lenders generally provide payments to lay the slab or foundation, construct the frame, install the roof, walls, doors and windows – known as lock-up stage – fit out the interior, and a final payment upon completion of the home.

“After every stage, the builder will send the client an invoice,” Nguyen says. “The client will approve the payment and the bank will pay the builder.”

Borrowers usually aren’t required to start paying the principal until the home is complete. “As the payment types are interest-only, the interest rate is higher,” Nguyen says.

“After the final staggered payment, the home loan then reverts to a traditional home loan with most lenders.”

$

What lenders look for Before providing any funds, lenders want to know exactly how much the build will cost, according to Mitchell.

“A lender will ask for a fixed-price building contract when you apply for a construction loan,” she says.

“The plans and specifications for the build will also need to be provided and examined.”

Lenders usually require the borrower to pay all the funds they are contributing first, typically in the form of the first deposit to the builder. Lenders may also want to see evidence of the builder’s public liability insurance.

Mitchell says the lender will conduct a valuation before the first progress payment and after the final payment is made. “Some lenders may also require a valuation during the construction process,” she says.

As with a typical home loan, lenders want to know that borrowers can repay the loan, and will require evidence of income and expenses.

These costs usually aren’t included in a building contract, but affect the valuation and the loan amount offered. “If you provide these quotes with the building contract when you apply for the construction loan, you will improve your valuation.”

Allow for extra costs Mitchell said borrowers should have contingency plans for unforeseen expenses. “It is also important to get quotes for extras such as driveways, landscaping and fencing,” she says.

Daniel Butkovich is Domain’s

$

Alternative options For most people, a construction loan is the only option when building a new home, according to Mitchell.

“If the bank is relying on the value of the home at the end of construction to secure the loan, they will always want to control the funds,” she says.

Home owners with equity in other properties are the exception, Nguyen says, as they can refinance or borrow against an existing property.

And, “it is important to note that if there is a current mortgage on the vacant land, clients are advised to contact their bank and formally notify them that they intend to build,” he says.

National Advice Editor.

Want to know more? Get the inside word at domain.com.au/advice

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THE DESIGN FILES B y LU CY FE AG INS

Diamond in the rough Who: Cara Bodsworth, of raincoat label Paqme, husband Cliff and their children, Bella and Clifford What: An 1870s home restored to its former glory Where: Armadale, Victoria

W

thedesignfiles.net CAITLIN MILLS / STYLING ANNIE PORTELLI / PRODUCTION LUCY FEAGINS / THE DESIGN FILES

hen Cara Bodsworth and her husband Cliff first purchased their home, it was a mirror of the property next door.

Both were built in the 1870s, in a combination of Victorian Italianate and Queen Victoria styles. However, over the years, a series of renovations saw the loss of many original features. Bodsworth enlisted the expertise of Charlie Inglis, of Inglis Architects, to restore the home to its former glory.

The first port of call was to knock the back off the home, which Bodsworth describes as a “very tired ’60s renovation” and introduce a new kitchen, laundry, lounge, upstairs bathrooms, bedrooms and playrooms.

Period features were reinstated and restored where possible. Even the woodwork detailing around the verandah has been re-made to replicate the original.

Bodsworth has many favourite treasures on display throughout the home. The most precious piece is a panel from her wedding dress, handmade (including hand-painted

Meanwhile, thanks to her husband’s plumbing supply business, Navi, all of the kitchen and bathroom hardware is on point.

The Armadale location is one the couple had been researching for a while, as they loved the “schools, parks, cafes and shops in the area”.

Initially unable to afford what they loved, she searched for the “worst house in the best street.” With this loving transformation and restoration now complete, it’s safe to say that description is no longer accurate.

flowers in six different shades of pink) by her mum and a family friend, which now sits as an exquisite installation in the dining room.

Other special corners of the home include the terrazzo en suite, and unique antique coat rack and artworks by Pietro Capogreco.

Natural light spills through the home, thanks to the architect’s renovations, and stainless steel benches have transformed the kitchen and laundry.

Bodsworth says the “stove, sink and bench are one seamless piece of steel” and the forgiving surface means the “kids can paint on the bench, roll pasta, and spill whatever without worrying”.

A boxed out fern garden separates the dining room from the living room, above; Cara Bodsworth with Bella and Clifford, below left; terrazzo features in the en suite, above right; the kitchen has millimetre thin stainless steel Barazza bench tops, below.

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

ARCHITECTURE B y K ATE BAR TE L S

Coogee II required clever

Clever design makes spaces shine

Coppin Street apartments This block features a fantastic use of space. From the outside the block looks stylish and sleek, and it certainly doesn’t appear like it could house five one-bedroom units and one two-bedroom unit.

Taking what was originally a 1960s free-standing brick building,

balance of both views and privacy.

architecture studio Musk made changes that reflect the way that people live today. Now, the building fits in with the quiet, residential Coppin Street in Richmond.

One change, for example, was removing the car park and implementing individual bike parking. This created more room in the building, but also showed that Musk had taken into account the preferred living environment.

Once inside, the architects gave the apartments open floor plans and used large sliding doors, high ceilings and concrete flooring to create a sense of openness and flexibility.

ROBERT WALSH

D

esigning spaces that look good is one thing, but creating functional ones is another.

From unusual layouts to difficult land plots, here are a few homes that are not only easy on the eye, but clever in their execution.

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Nano S Camp Hill

This home in Coogee, NSW, is known for its clever use of light, purposely placing windows and doors where it could “borrow” views and pockets of light from the gaps in the horizon.

The design and the build required clever management and balance of both views and privacy.

Madeline Blanchfield Architects designed the family home on a block that had its difficulties – narrow, steep and surrounded by neighbours.

Working to make the most of the space, open courtyards were designed on the lower levels of the home with the aim of minimising the slope.

This tiny home in Queensland was created by Small Change Design as an exercise in downsizing. The twostorey home may be small, but its clever storage has meant that the new owners can keep a lot of their belongings.

“You have to look at all opportunities for storage,” says Sally Wills, director of Small Change Design. “This property has lots under the stairs and cupboards everywhere, and a little laundry that doubles as a pantry as well.”

The Nano property is part of a group of small homes that Willis has

Sliding doors separate spaces at the Coppin Street apartments, ACRE STUDIO

Coogee House II

MUSK ARCHITECTS

According to Musk’s lead architect Hannes McNamara, “these apartments are an effective solution for integrating increased density into a prominently single dwelling street, while positively contributing to the streetscape and neighbourhood”.

above; the garden path that twists and turns in

on offer. Working with Jemade Design and Construction, Wills executes well thought-out solutions, ensuring that the home people want can fit into any space, and on any patch of land.

The garden path A property in Adelaide had its backyard transformed to include a garden path, leading to an array of zones in the garden: each giving a different feel and making the garden a place to explore.

To transform the backyard, the landscape architects broke it into multiple outdoor rooms, “places where you could go and have a coffee or a wine, or chase the sun or shade as you walked around the block,” says Brett Robinson, director at Acre.

Everything from the flower bed colours to the weaving direction of the path was carefully considered and done with intent.

an Adelaide garden, left.

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Artist impression

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

ARTIST IMPRESSION

N AT U R A L F O C U S

The Botanical in Mickleham will include more than 30 hectares of planned open space.

communities across Western Australia, Victoria and Queensland, and has won more than 100 international, national and state industry awards.

“Creating a community that encourages residents to enjoy the parks and open active spaces is central to what we do,” says Hoffmann.

Botanical, in Mickleham, is another case in point. With 2400 lots, the new estate will include more than 30 hectares of planned open space, including wetlands and pocket parks lined with towering river red gums.

The first park in the estate will be open for play in early 2020.

“Our vision is to create an estate of nature appreciation, a community that loves gathering in al fresco spaces surrounded with beautiful native flora,” says Hoffmann.

Designing a haven for families

F

In Tarneit, 28 kilometres west of Melbourne, the meandering waterway of Davis Creek is part of 14 hectares of parks and open spaces within Satterley’s Habitat on Davis Creek estate. A new park within the community features barbecue and picnic facilities, a bike track and a playground, providing residents with places to gather and play year-round.

“With a focus on the importance of nature-based play, the playground integrates natural wood structures and sculptural elements which reflect its proximity to the Davis Creek corridor,” says Hoffmann.

Just down the road at True North, in Greenvale, residents can enjoy a brand new multimillion-dollar sporting precinct, featuring two playing fields, sports pavilion and adventure playground, allowing children of all ages to get active and social, while still being close to home.

Hoffmann says providing key amenities, like parks and playgrounds, is a way of fostering a family-friendly community for residents.

“We always aim to develop communities close to public transport routes, employment hubs and which, when fully developed, boast a range of schools, shopping facilities, parks and playgrounds,” he says.

“We are creating homes for families that will suit their needs now and well into the future.”

Meanwhile, a new $2.4 million one-hectare park in Upper Point Cook includes a 10-metre tower slide, children’s playground, flying fox, half basketball court, mini soccer pitch, skate boarding facilities and a large grassy area, which Hoffmann says has been a hit with young families in the area.

“They now have a space to participate in an array of outdoor activities, from shooting hoops and skateboarding to soccer, and taking the plunge on the huge spiral slide.”

In its 40 years, Satterley has developed 165 residential

ARTIST IMPRESSION

or many young Australian families, a sunny weekend means piling the kids, along with whatever sport equipment is laying around, into the back of the car for a trip to the local park.

For those living in master-planned communities, that trip might be as simple as stepping out the front door.

Jack Hoffmann, general manager of Satterley Victoria & Queensland, says easy access to parks and playgrounds is one of the major benefits of buying into a new estate that has been designed around the needs of residents.

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IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

GARDENING B y LISA MARIE CO RSO

AMELIA STANWIX / CONSTRUCTION INSTYLE GARDENS / PLANTING SHRUB HUB

Starting from the ground up

A good gardener should consider their location and environment before

C

ongratulations! After many months, meetings, schedules and spending a disproportionate (but worthy) amount of time choosing tapware, your new home build is complete.

Well, the interior is at least, the outside remains exactly as you found it: a dirt patch looking for some love.

Tackling the garden after a long building project can feel overwhelming but, with careful planning and the assistance of experts, you can create an outside oasis that is a well-matched suitor for your new home.

“The first thing new home owners should do when turning their postconstruction apocalyptic backyard landscape into a garden is to stop, sit and look,” says landscape designer and editor of The Planthunter, Georgina Reid.

“Try to develop as clear and comprehensive a picture as possible of the existing space and its opportunities and constraints,” she adds. “Then once you’ve gathered this information, think about what you

planting begins.

would actually like, what you can actually commit to and what you can actually afford.”

Similarly, Phillip Withers of Phillip Withers Landscape Design believes home owners should consider their lifestyle parameters before getting caught up on stylistic elements of a new garden.

He suggests working with a landscape designer or horticulturalist to establish a garden where a “lowintensive-maintenance regime will be established” by collaborating with

them to “procure your plant life, help set out your plants and give you a lesson to plant and maintain the garden yourself with a quarterly check-up”.

Before getting side-tracked selecting exciting plants, Reid maintains all good gardens start from the ground up and prioritises quality soil above all else.

“It’s not sexy but the more alive your soil is, the happier your garden will be,” she says. “Feed it with organic matter and compost and

treasure it with mulch and water and your soil will reward your attention with lots of worms and microbes and life.”

With the soil foundations sorted, the planting can commence but a good gardener should consider their location before seeking out the best hydrangeas for the nature strip.

“It’s really important for people to remember that plants are living beings, not objects,” Reid says.

“They have specific requirements for growth, just like us, and if you can’t give them what they need, they might die.”

Seeking advice from a horticulturalist, joining your local community gardening club or simply walking around your neighbourhood to see what plants look healthy are good ways to determine plants specific to your location.

“A biodiverse garden gives you many options for a hardy palette,” Withers says. “Plants such as native grasses and shrubs such as banksia, correa and dianella, South African shrubs such as euphorbia, Mediterranean shrubs such as rosemary and Central American and South African succulents and cactus such as kleinia and echinocactus are a great starting point.”

A garden takes patience and perseverance but brings with it a joy that can’t be rivalled, says Reid, and when you see your dirt patch transform: “You’ll be hooked.”

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

SUSTAINABLE HOUSES B y MARY O ’ B RIE N

Living off the grid SEVEN SIMPLE WAYS TO LIVE SUSTAINABLY

A

1. Use passive-design principles – living areas should face north for winter sun; plan for shading in summer

2. Insulate your home – check the recommended level for your region

3. Double glazing assists with energy efficiency

4. Use rain water for gardens and plumbing

5. Consider installing solar panels and/or batteries

6. Buy energy-efficient or DAVE KULESZA

fter a series of long hot summers and changing weather patterns, sustainability is back on the radar. With rising energy costs, our homes need to be more efficient and architects are leading the charge with houses that perform well, but look good too.

Taking sustainability to its logical conclusion, two architects have recently completed two off-the-grid houses, one near Kilmore in regional Victoria and the other in the Blue Mountains in NSW. These beautiful cabins can inspire our home design.

Resting on a hill with wide-ranging views, the Kilmore house is a compact but beautifully designed country retreat for a couple. The house with one living room, one bedroom and one bathroom uses passive-design principles, produces its own power, collects rainwater and treats its waste water.

“Everyone would like to incorporate more sustainable elements,” says architect Ben Callery. “The difficulty has been people’s ability to afford them, but changing regulations and a competitive market have brought down the cost of elements like solar power, and double glazing is now commonplace.”

The power, generated by solar panels, is stored in a battery. The wide eaves block out the summer sun while the windows are orientated to maximise the winter sun and catch breezes for cooling. Rainwater is stored in two tanks, one for domestic use and one in case of bushfires.

Callery says the concrete thermal mass helps regulate the temperature year ’round while double glazing assists with energy efficiency.

Searching in the Blue Mountains for a family weekender, architect Simon Anderson found a bush block that proved the perfect spot to finetune the sustainable principles he uses in his city practice.

“The challenge was to have a house that looks after itself with no ongoing costs,” Anderson says.

The living area of his Off-Grid Cabin faces south to capture the views – not ideal for passive-solar performance so Anderson split the house into two skillion-roofed boxes, with the sleeping zones facing north.

The roof of the living area holds 6.7KW solar panels for generating power. A small wood fire is helped by double glazing, underfloor-heating

Ben Callery’s Elemental House, Kilmore, above; Simon Anderson’s Off-Grid Cabin in

low-water usage appliances

7. Use recycled materials and low/zero VOC paints

and high insulation. A heat-recovery system also helps keep the cabin warm and the air fresh.

There is a worm farm sewerage system, zero VOC paints and trees that had to be cut down were reused inside.

Of course, bushfire planning is essential in the countryside.

Anderson opted for a fireproof concrete house with fibre cementboard decking and a metal screen that can be used as protection in a fire – or also in heavy rain.

Anderson believes most people want to incorporate sustainable features into their homes.

“It doesn’t necessarily have to cost too much more if you do your research – it’s shades of green,” he says. “Most clients want to have a house with lower energy costs.”

And, yes, there are challenges to living off the grid. Last winter, he turned on the dishwasher too late and it drained the battery, leaving the house with no power.

the Blue Mountains, left.

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HOME BUILDERS | SPECIAL EDITION |

NEIGHBOURHOODS / S OU T H B A N K B y L ARIS SA D U B ECKI

Clearance rate

62% Median price units

$560,000 Top sales 1. 5010/7 Riverside Quay, $2.4 million 2. 1701/60 Kavanagh Street $2.058 million 3. 1708/250 St Kilda Road $1.95 million 4. 2104/8 Kavanagh Street $1.95 million 5. 1003/250 St Kilda Road $1.85 million Due to listing volumes, median LEIGH HENNINGHAM

price house data is not available for this suburb.

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A

h Southbank, how far you’ve come. The makeover of the Yarra’s southern bank has been extreme indeed, turning it from an unloved relic of our industrial past into a bustling entertainment hub.

Housing the Arts Centre, National Gallery of Victoria, Melbourne Theatre Company, the Ian Potter Southbank Centre – home to the new Melbourne Conservatorium of Music – and Crown Casino, its attractions run from the artistic to the entertaining.

A population of 18,709 (at the 2016 census) living in just 1.7 square kilometres makes it one of the densest suburbs in Australia. Its growth from 11,235 residents recorded five years previously makes it also one of the fastest growing, and the population is forecast to exceed 50,000 by 2036.

It’s been something of a test case for Australia’s apartment construction boom. It’s an easy walk to the CBD, yet lacks its own proper supermarket (the de facto shopping strip has been

South Melbourne’s Clarendon Street).

The quality of some of the earlier examples of high-rise Southbank construction has been an occasionally contested point, although agents say the proportion of owner-occupiers is on the rise thanks to a marked improvement in design, aesthetics and pedestrian-friendliness.

The augurs are good for Southbank.

New Melbourne City Council planning controls aimed at boosting its cultural credentials will require future developments to include arts

and cultural uses on the first four floors.

Last year $35 million was earmarked to create 2.5 hectares of new public space and Southbank Boulevard is in the process of becoming the arts precinct’s “green spine”, with one lane to be converted into a linear park.

Almost as excitingly, the first proper supermarket is expected to open in late 2020, with the completion of stage one of the landmark development Melbourne Square.

MOVE IN \ SOUTHBANK Open your camera

505w 505w w/93-119 /93-119 Kavanagh Street

and hover your phone

$1.01 million

over the app code to see the price guide

3

2 space. Featuring a sumptuous

Part of the resort-style enclave of

entrance lobby and dedicated

Melbourne Square currently being

concierge service, it is part of a

realised, this three-bedroom

spacious, hotel-like inner-city

apartment is a retreat from the lively

sanctuary with communal facilities

city outside. Designed by Cox

including a 54th-floor swimming pool.

Architecture with interiors by Carr, its

Private sale

magnificent views and luxe fittings

Agent: CBRE, Andrew Leoncelli

conjure a sense of grandeur and

1300 888 770

DOM A IN

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